The Mancos Valley Historical Society kicks off the fund drive for its new museum with two events in April.

On April 9, the group will hold an Easter Ham Shoot at the Simmons Gravel Pit, 39145 U.S. Highway 160, west of Mancos at 1 p.m. The event will be postponed if there is rain or snow.

Competitors are limited to use of 12-gauge shotguns only, and shells will be provided. The entry fee is $10 per round. Nine shooters will compete in each round, and the prize will be an Easter ham from P&D Grocery in Mancos.

There will also be a children’s event using a BB gun during the shoot. The gun will be provided. Children shoot individually, competing for hot dogs and Easter prizes. It will cost $1 to enter each round, and refreshments will be available.

The second event takes place on April 22 at 7 p.m. at the historic Bauer House in downtown Mancos. “Little Black Dresses” will give area women the chance to dress up and enjoy beverages and hors d’oeuvres. There will be door prizes and a dress revue with various prize categories. Although the event is called “Little Black Dresses,” any evening wear will do, including historic costumes. A $20 fee will be charged.

The funds received from these events will go toward the planned historical museum in Mancos. The group needs to collect $57,500 through money raising events and grants to open the facility.